The financial stature of football superstars has always been a subject of intense curiosity among fans and followers. Yet, precise figures are rarely disclosed publicly. Most media outlets rely on official statements, statistical platforms, and insider sources to estimate a player’s earnings.
This time, however, Jorge Mas, co-owner of Inter Miami, has openly revealed Lionel Messi’s annual income from the club. According to Mas, Messi earns between $70 million and $80 million per year, a figure that also includes his share of club ownership. Mas emphasised that such substantial expenditure requires the club to strengthen revenue streams through sponsorships and other commercial ventures.
Recently, Inter Miami signed a significant deal with the Brazilian financial services company Nu Holding. Under this agreement, Nu Holding will secure naming rights for Inter Miami’s under-construction stadium, located near the international airport, further enhancing the club’s commercial profile.
In an interview with ESPN, Inter Miami’s President of Business Operations, Javier Asensi, revealed that preparations for Messi’s potential arrival had begun well in advance. Asensi remarked, “I do not believe in luck. To me, luck is the alignment of preparation and opportunity. Messi’s arrival is no coincidence—it is the result of careful planning, strategy, and long-term preparation. This embodies the American mindset: set ambitious goals and prepare for all eventualities.”
The new stadium, with a seating capacity of 26,700, is scheduled to host its inaugural match on 4 April.
Mas elaborated further in a recent interview with Bloomberg, stating, “Player salaries are exceptionally high. That is why world-class sponsorship is critical. We compensate Messi with a total annual package of $70–80 million. He is worth every dollar.”
Messi currently holds the distinction of being the highest-paid player in Major League Soccer (MLS). According to the MLS Players Association’s salary guidelines, his base salary is $12 million, and his guaranteed earnings total $20.45 million—far below the combined $70–80 million annual package. The remainder of his income stems primarily from club ownership and various lucrative sponsorship agreements.
The following table summarises Messi’s major sources of income:
| Income Source | Annual Amount (Million USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MLS Base Salary | 12 | Guaranteed contractual salary |
| Guaranteed Earnings | 20.45 | Base + bonuses from MLS |
| Club Ownership | 25–30 | Share of profits from Inter Miami |
| Sponsorship & Endorsements | 13–18 | Commercial deals including Nu Holding |
Total Annual Earnings: $70–80 million
Messi’s arrival in Miami is not only a sporting milestone but also a strategic business triumph for Inter Miami, combining athletic excellence with substantial commercial potential.